Solid solutions with coexisting ferroelectric and antiferroelectric phases for creation of new materials

Abstract

The controlled decomposition of solid solutions in the vicinity of interphase boundaries separating domains of the coexisting antiferroelectric and ferroelectric phases opens new fields of applications for these materials. The lead zirconate–titanate based solid solutions are considered as an example of substances suitable for creation of materials with the negative refractive index. Manufactured composites constitute a dielectric antiferroelectric matrix with a structure of conducting interphase boundaries separating domains of the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric phases. The electric conductivity of the interphase boundaries occurs as a result of the local decomposition of the solid solutions in the vicinity of these boundaries. The decomposition process and consequently the conductivity of the interphase boundaries can be controlled by means of external influences.